Reposted from Tim Richardson

Leadership Begins with Belief

Most of us can point to someone who saw potential in us before we fully saw it in ourselves. My grandparents did that for many people, including me. Their example taught me that belief is more than encouragement. It is an investment expressed through time, opportunity, trust, and action.

They gave the interest from their investments to their grandchildren while they were in college. They loaned or gave money to help others start businesses. They reduced the rent a family paid them when that family faced hardship. They sponsored 10 Dutch families who came to the United States at a time when a sponsor was required.

They paid for one man’s undergraduate degree, graduate degree, and Ph.D. And when I left my full-time job to start my professional speaking business, my grandparents gave me $10,000 to help me launch. They believed in others.

Because of their belief and optimism that people would do good things when given an opportunity, lives were changed. Destinies were altered. People who may never have had the chance to further their education, start a business, or build a new life for their families in a new country were given that opportunity.

Because my grandparents believed in me, my life was challenged and changed. There is much more to the story, but it begins with belief. I do not know what my life would look like today if someone had not looked beyond my imperfections, lack of experience, and failures and said three simple words: “I believe in you,” then backed those words up with action. It is remarkable what people can achieve when someone believes in them. Most people do not need another reason to doubt themselves. They need someone to see potential in them before they fully see it in themselves. You and I likely pass people every day who need to hear these words: “I believe in you.” Belief is crucial, but it is not the only thing.

Leaders show belief when they provide people with:

Clear expectations
Meaningful opportunities
Honest feedback
Time and attention
Training and mentoring
Recognition for good work
Permission to learn from mistakes
The resources and support to succeed

Most people do not need a leader who simply says, “I believe in you.” They need one whose actions make that belief unmistakable.

Belief is not only a compliment. It is an investment. At some point, nearly every successful person can identify someone who saw something in them before they fully saw it in themselves. Leaders have that opportunity every day. Pause long enough to notice who on your team may be ready for more responsibility, more support, more encouragement, or simply these words:

“I believe in you, and I am willing to help you prove it.”

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